SQL

The computer language SQL is a query language for retrieval of information from a database and of documents containing the needed information. It is developed by the American National Standards Institute and the International Organization for Standardization.

ESCO classifies SQL under the knowledge category, specifically in the software and applications development and analysis subcategory.

Yes — SQL is on McKinsey's Technical AI shortlist, the set of specialised skills relevant to building, tuning, and deploying AI systems rather than just using them.

ESCO tags SQL as a sector-specific (rooted in one industry) skill — a signal of how portable it is when you change field.

Yes — SQL is also known as Informix 4GL/SQL, Subquery, or SEQUEL. They refer to the same underlying capability in the ESCO taxonomy.

The most reliable path is to pick a job or project that demands SQL and learn through delivery. Complement that with role-specific roadmaps and short courses. Explore the occupations below to see where this skill is used in practice.